On the evening of March 13th, upon invitation from the Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany, His Excellency Dr Eckhard Lübkemeier, and the Commanding Officer, Captain Helge Risch, five Mount Mercy College Leaving Certificate students of German, together with their teacher Ms Loftus, had the privilege of enjoying a wonderful evening reception aboard the Gorch Fock, tall ship and training vessel of the German Navy . Having been given a very warm welcome aboard by the Ambassador, the Admiral and the Captain of the ship, all the MMC students had the honour of conversing with the Ambassador and enjoyed the opportunity to speak with him “auf Deutsch”. The MMC students were the only school group attending the invitation-only event and were excellent representatives of our school, enjoying also the special opportunity to converse with both the Captain and Admiral of the ship, as well as many crew members, naval officers, attending dignitaries and members of the Goethe Institute. The occasion was attended by many high ranking Irish military officials as well as local dignitaries.

German Naval Officers pictured with Ms Loftus and MMC students aboard the Gorch Fock

This rare and special occasion gave an insight into German navy life. The hard work of each crew member, which allows the impeccable running of such a large vessel, was evident. It was so interesting to watch the formal military ceremonial introductions and salutes and to enjoy both navy and ambassadorial welcomes. The Mount Mercy College group also enjoyed speaking to and hearing about the various routines of crew members who are at different stages in their training . Differences in rank are represented by wearing different uniforms which you will see in the pictures below. A lavish buffet of German food and drinks including traditional Bratwurst, Sauerkraut, German breads, canapés and confectionery was generously shared. It is difficult to put into words the infectious feeling of enjoyment, fun and excitement experienced on the evening. The students enjoyed a fantastic opportunity to converse with so many native German speakers and to gain a unique insight into German culture. Many of the trainee crew members are only slightly older than our LC students as they complete their naval training and this allowed an easy rapport. Our girls in blue proved to be excellent ambassadors for MMC, easily communicating with all ranks of staff and visiting dignitaries aboard ship. Sincere thanks to H.E. The Ambassador and Captain of the ship for the lovely invitation to this once in a lifetime event. Special thanks also to Nelly Reske, P.A. to the Ambassador, Herr Harald Seibel First Secretary , Cultural, Press and Political Affairs and Miriam Hornauer of the Goethe Institute who were instrumental in selecting MMC as a worthy recipient of such a special ambassadorial invitation.

Captain Helge Risch with MMC students

The Admiral of Gorch Fock with MMC students and Ms Loftus

Cadet Philipp Panni on duty at entry to ship as MMC students prepare to board

MMC students and sailors-in-training aboard the Gorch Fock

Mayor of Cobh John Mulvihill Jnr (centre), pictured with MMC students aboard the Gorch Fock

A reunion of the Leaving Cert Class of 1984 will be held on Friday the 9th of May 2014. The Rendevous Bar will host this event at 8.00pm. Past pupils are invited to contact Margo Collins (Ahern) at margocmc@yahoo.ie